Skill: Use exponents to write repeated multiplication

When the same whole number is multiplied by itself, use exponential notation:

• The repeated number is the base.
• The number of times it appears is the exponent.

For example, write $(7 \times 7 \times 7 \times 7)$ in exponential notation.

1. Find the repeated factor: it is $7$. So, $7$ is the base.
2. Count the factors: there are $4$ sevens. So, $4$ is the exponent.
3. Write the base and exponent:

$$7 \times 7 \times 7 \times 7 = 7^4$$

The expression $(7^4)$ means $7$ is used as a factor $4$ times. It does not mean $(7 \times 4)$.